Quimper tourist information
“Kemper” is the historical capital of Cornwall. Since Roman times, it has not stopped being a town of major importance both culturally and economically. Even today it has its own particular atmosphere, different from other Brittany towns. And yet it remains a typical Brittany town…
One of the architectural pearls of Quimper is the Saint – Corentin cathedral, which took 650 years to build. Building started in 1239. It has an elegant gothic edifice with pure lines, with two flamboyant spires. A statue of king Gradlon stands above the entrance. Inside, the choir stalls are, curiously, at an angle of 15 degrees to the nave. It is thought that this is to integrate the stalls into the tomb of Alain Canhiard, who defeated the Norman troops in 913. The Medieval town features typical timber-beamed houses in winding streets. Winding through them, you’ll see the market hall with its tempting food stalls. When it was restored in 1998, numerous statues were uncovered. They also found a pillory, on which it is thought that Marion du Faouet was hung, in the 18th century (a local feminine Robin Hood type outlaw).
The quays at quais d’Odet and their flowery footbridges are very animated with bars and café terraces and restaurants doing good trade. Earthenware has been a local speciality for many centuries. There are many shops featuring this craft.
The Festival de Cornouaille is the main cultural event of the year. For seven days in July, thousands of participants take to the streets in traditional costume, singing and dancing takes place, and there are some excellent concerts and fireworks. Celts come from all over Europe and the town swings for a week.
Quimper is like a time machine for the curious visitor, but it has more than just heritage to recommend it. It’s a dynamic and attractive town.
Quimper aerial map
Please click on any icon on the Quimper aerial tourist map, to find close by places, offering hotels and tourist information. You can zoom in and zoom out our touristical map as well as switch between satelite and map view of Quimper.
Quimper weather forecast
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